HOLIDAY TRASH
SCHEDULEThe City of Columbia observes:New Years DayMartin Luther King, Jr. HolidayMemorial DayJuly 4th HolidayLabor DayThanksgiving DayChristmas DayRefuse collection will be delayed one day
after the holiday for the remainder of the week.Trash is picked up in Bluff Creek Estates
on Friday instead of Thursday following these holidays!

It has come to our
attention that there have been three burglaries within Bluff Creek
Estates over the last two weeks. It appears the method of entry has been
through back doors. Although the Association does not have details of
the burglaries, we want to make sure everyone is aware they have
occurred and encourage you to take the necessary precautions and report
ALL suspicious people, vehicles or activity to the Columbia Police
Department.

Please see the
Burglary Prevention Tips outlined on the Columbia Police Department’s
website:

1.Keep all doors and windows closed and securely
fastened. An open window or door is an open invitation for burglars.
Thieves are also quick to spot weak locks that may be easily forced
open. Doors should have deadbolt locks with a one-inch throw and
reinforced strike plate with three inch screws. All windows should have
window locks.

2.Secure sliding glass doors by placing a metal rod
or a wooden dowel rod in the track and install vertical bolts. This will
help prevent burglars from forcing the door open or lifting it off the
track.

4.Create the illusion that you are home by using
timers on lights, radios and TV’s. Make your residence appear occupied,
even when no one is home, to help deter criminals.

5.Keep the perimeter of your home well lit.
Installing low voltage outdoor lighting is a cost-effective way to
discourage intruders as well as highlight a house.

6.Never leave clues that you are away on a trip. Have
a trusted neighbor collect mail and newspapers while you are away so
delivered items do not accumulate. You can also ask a neighbor to park
in your driveway or parking place to make it appear that you are
present.

7.Keep some shades and blinds up and curtains open to
maintain a normal, everyday appearance in your residence.

8.Never leave a message on your telephone answering
machine telling people that you are away from home. A message that you
will return at a certain time leaves your home vulnerable in the
interim.

9.Keep shrubbery trimmed away from entrances and
walkways. Large and ornate hedges may be beautiful but they also provide
a hiding place for burglars who need only a minute to break in through a
window or door.

10.Organize a Neighborhood Watch program to protect your
neighborhood. An alert community is a safe community. Contact Officer
Amy Bishop at (573)-874-7426 to inquire about how to start a
Neighborhood Watch in your area.